Waterford tie under threat

Waterford United's clash with St Patrick's Athletic in the first round of the Harp Lager FAI Cup may have to be postponed after further rain and sleet threatened to make the pitch at the Regional Sports Centre unplayable for tomorrow night's scheduled kick-off.

A pitch inspection will take place at the RSC this afternoon with the possibility of a second tomorrow and club officials are still hoping that, despite a forecast of more rain, the ground will get a chance to dry out sufficiently for the game to go ahead.

Several other games are also subject to inspections including those at Kilkenny City, Cobh Ramblers and Monaghan United. Given that all may still take place on schedule no decision was taken yesterday on prospective dates for refixed ties but it does seems likely that Waterford would attempt to get their game played on Sunday afternoon if the conditions permitted it.

None of the matches in Dublin appears to be under threat at present, which won't suit Bohemians and Cork who have several injuries.

Cork are without Kelvin Flanagan, Jason Kabia and Stephen Napier for tomorrow night's visit to Dalymount Park, while Bohemians' difficulties were made worse in the win over Drogheda during which both Tommy Byrne and Donal Broughan picked up knocks. Byrne will almost certainly miss the game.